Micro-hinge for an electronic device

ABSTRACT

A personal computing device is provided with a first housing portion, a second housing portion, and a hinge joining the first housing portion to the second housing portion. The hinge is configured to allow the first housing portion to rotate substantially three-hundred-sixty degrees relative to the second housing portion. The hinge can be implemented as a plurality of interlinked parallel hinge segments, each hinge segment to rotate about a respective one of a plurality of parallel axes of the hinge to enable the rotation of the first housing portion.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

Embodiments described herein generally relate to the field of hinges,and more particularly, to a micro-hinge for an electronic device.

BACKGROUND

End users have more electronic device choices than ever before. A numberof prominent technological trends are currently afoot (e.g., morecomputing devices, more devices that can change into differentconfigurations, etc.), and these trends are changing the electronicdevice landscape. One of the technological trends is a hybrid laptop(e.g., a convertible computer, fold over notebook, etc.). A hybridlaptop is a one-piece mobile computer that can include a laptopconfiguration and a tablet configuration. To convert from the laptopconfiguration to the tablet configuration, often the display or screencan rotate, twist, or spin over a keyboard. While hybrid laptops are acompelling way of delivering convertibility from a laptop configurationto a tablet configuration, in some designs, the hinge can be bulky andlimit the form-factor of the device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not by way oflimitation in the FIGURES of the accompanying drawings, in which likereferences indicate similar elements and in which:

FIG. 1A is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in a closed clamshell configuration, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1B is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in an open clamshell configuration, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1C is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in an open flat configuration, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1D is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in a tablet configuration, in accordance withone embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1E is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in a tablet configuration, in accordance withone embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof a portion of a hinge, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof a portion of a hinge, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof a portion of a hinge, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 5A is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof a portion of an electronic device, in accordance with one embodimentof the present disclosure;

FIG. 5B is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof a portion of an electronic device, in accordance with one embodimentof the present disclosure;

FIG. 6A is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in an open clamshell configuration, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6B is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in an open flat configuration, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6C is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in a closed clamshell configuration, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6D is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in a tablet configuration, in accordance withone embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7A is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in an open clamshell configuration, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7B is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in an open flat configuration, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7C is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in a closed clamshell configuration, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7D is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in a tablet configuration, in accordance withone embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8A is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in an open clamshell configuration, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8B is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in an open flat configuration, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8C is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in a closed clamshell configuration, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8D is a simplified orthographic diagram illustrating an embodimentof an electronic device in a tablet configuration, in accordance withone embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a simplified block diagram associated with an example ARMecosystem system on chip (SOC) of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 10 is a simplified block diagram illustrating example logic thatmay be used to execute activities associated with the presentdisclosure.

The FIGURES of the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, as theirdimensions can be varied considerably without departing from the scopeof the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS Overview

In an example, there is disclosed a system, an apparatus, and a methodfor a low profile hinge design. In one example embodiment, the lowprofile hinge can include a micro-hinge. The micro-hinge can couple orconnect a first element to a second element and can include a firstattachment that couples to the first element, a second attachment thatcouples to the second element, and a plurality of linkages that couplesthe first attachment to the second attachment. The low profile hinge canrotate about three hundred and sixty degrees. The low profile hinge canfurther include a plurality of micro-hinges and a plurality of supportrods. Also, the low profile hinge can include a flexible covering. Inone example, the low profile hinge extends about the length of the firstelement and the second element. In addition, the micro-hinge can includean electrical conduit. In some examples, the first element is a baseportion of an electronic device and the second element is a displayportion of the electronic device.

Example Embodiments of the Disclosure

A hybrid laptop is a one-piece mobile computer that can include a laptopconfiguration and a tablet configuration. To convert from the laptopconfiguration to the tablet configuration, often the display or screencan rotate, twist, or spin over a keyboard. While hybrid laptops are acompelling way of delivering convertibility from a laptop configurationto a tablet configuration, in some designs, the hinge can be bulky andlimit the form-factor of the device. For example, the z-height of thedevice is often dependent on the hinge design.

Currently, form-factor limitations for electronic devices such as hybridlaptops are addressed by enabling ultra-low profile and smallform-factor components (e.g., coreless package and motherboard,connectors, batteries, etc.). The development of high-densitysuper-capacitors is also being used to further reduce the batteryform-factor and density to enable low profile platforms. However, theform factor for a low profile device is often limited by the hinge.

The foregoing is offered by way of non-limiting examples in which thesystem and method of the present specification may usefully be deployed.The following disclosure provides many different embodiments, orexamples, for implementing different features of the present disclosure.Specific examples of components and arrangements are described below tosimplify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examplesand are not intended to be limiting. Further, the present disclosure mayrepeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. Thisrepetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not initself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/orconfigurations discussed. Different embodiments may have differentadvantages, and no particular advantage is necessarily required of anyembodiment.

In the examples of the present specification, a system and method isprovided for a low profile hinge design. In one example, using amicro-hinge design, a device (e.g., an electrical device) can beconfigured such that the hinge form-factor does not limit the scaling ofthe total z-height (height on the z-axis of an X, Y, Z, Cartesiancoordinate system) of the device. The hinge can be a low profile, totalcollapsible, three hundred and sixty degree (360°) hinge. The totalthickness of the hinge design can be scaled according to a desiredz-height through configuring the dimension of the segment components ofthe hinge. Hence, the overall z-height of the device can be scaled basedon the components of the device (e.g., the display portion, baseportion, keyboard portion, etc.) and not limited by the hinge size. Forexample, using the low profile hinge design, an electronic device canoperate in a low profile clamshell configuration, a low profile flatconfiguration, and a low profile tablet configuration.

The following is an illustration of an example of a micro-hinge designaccording to one or more example embodiments of the presentspecification. It should be noted that the hinge designs disclosed hereare given as non-limiting examples only, and it is intended that anysuitable technique or configuration should be included in the broadscope of this specification.

Example Embodiments

The following detailed description sets forth example embodiments ofapparatuses, methods, and systems relating to micro-hinge configurationsfor an electronic device. Features such as structure(s), function(s),and/or characteristic(s), for example, are described with reference toone embodiment as a matter of convenience; various embodiments may beimplemented with any suitable one or more of the described features.

Turning to FIG. 1A, FIG. 1A is a simplified orthographic viewillustrating an embodiment of an electronic device 10 in a closedclamshell configuration in accordance with one embodiment of the presentdisclosure. Electronic device 10 may include a base portion 12, adisplay portion 14, a keyboard portion 16, a display hinge 38, and akeyboard hinge 20. Display hinge 38 can define an axis of rotation thatis shared between base portion 12 and display portion 14. Keyboard hinge20 can define an axis of rotation that is shared between base portion 12and keyboard portion 16. In this configuration, keyboard hinge 20 anddisplay hinge 38 can have a low, flat, or relatively flat profile with alow z-height. As used throughout this Specification, the z-height is theheight on the z-axis of an X, Y, Z Cartesian coordinate system. In anembodiment, keyboard hinge 20 is a different type of hinge than displayhinge 38 and may be a flexible fabric, molded flexible polymer, or someother similar thin flexible material.

In one or more embodiments, electronic device 10 is a notebook computeror laptop computer. In still other embodiments, electronic device 10 maybe any suitable electronic device having a display such as a mobiledevice, a tablet computer and/or a tablet device (e.g., iPad™), phablet,a personal digital assistant (PDA), a smartphone, an audio system, amovie player of any type, a computer docking station, etc. In yetanother embodiment, most of the electronics (e.g., processor, memory,etc.) for electronic device 10 reside in base portion 12.

Turning to FIG. 1B, FIG. 1B is a simplified orthographic view ofelectronic device 10 in an open clamshell configuration in accordancewith one embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG.1B, display portion 14 has been rotated on display hinge 38. Keyboardportion 16 has been rotated on keyboard hinge 20.

Keyboard portion 16 can include a keyboard 24. Display portion 14 caninclude a display 22. In one or more embodiments, display 22 can be aliquid crystal display (LCD) display screen, a light-emitting diode(LED) display screen, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displayscreen, a plasma display screen, or any other suitable display screensystem. Display 22 may be a touchscreen that can detect the presence andlocation of a touch within the display area. In another embodiment,display portion 14 may contain a camera, a microphone, and speakers.

Turning to FIG. 1C, FIG. 1C is a simplified orthographic view ofelectronic device 10 in an open flat configuration in accordance withone embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated, in FIG. 1C,display portion 14 has been rotated on display hinge 38 such thatdisplay portion 14 is in the same plane as base portion 12. In addition,keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on keyboard hinge 20 such thatkeyboard portion 16 is also in the same plane as base portion 12.Keyboard hinge 20 and display hinge 38 are configured to lay relativelyflat on a planer surface and allow electronic device 10 to have a low,flat, or relatively flat profile with a low z-height when electronicdevice 10 is in the flat configuration.

Turning to FIG. 1D, FIG. 1D is a simplified orthographic view ofelectronic device in a tablet configuration in accordance with oneembodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 1D, displayportion 14 has been rotated on display hinge 38 such that display 22faces up and away from base portion 12. In addition, keyboard portion 16has been rotated on keyboard hinge 20 such that keyboard 24 (not shown)faces down and away from base portion 12. In this configuration, display22 is facing up while on the opposite side, keyboard 24 is facing down.Base portion 12 is between display portion 14 and keyboard portion 16.Keyboard hinge 20 and display hinge 38 are configured to have a lowprofile and allow electronic device 10 to have a low, flat, orrelatively flat profile with a low z-height when electronic device 10 isin the tablet configuration.

Turning to FIG. 1E, FIG. 1E is a simplified orthographic view ofelectronic device in a tablet configuration in accordance with oneembodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 1E, displayportion 14 has been rotated on display hinge 38 such that display 22faces up and away from base portion 12. In addition, keyboard portion 16has been rotated on keyboard hinge 20 such that keyboard 24 (not shown)faces downward and towards base portion 12. In this configuration,keyboard portion 16 is facing down and is between base portion 12 anddisplay portion 14. In another embodiment, keyboard portion 16 may berotated on keyboard hinge 20 such that keyboard 24 faces downward andtowards display portion 14 and serves as protective layer for display22. In this configuration, display portion 14 is between base portion 12and keyboard portion 16.

In general terms, electronic device 10 may be configured to provide adisplay portion and a keyboard portion coupled to a base portion using amicro-hinge design. The micro-hinge can be configured such that thedisplay portion and the keyboard portion can be rotated about 360°around the base portion. The overall system can be configured to operatein a low profile clamshell mode configuration, a low profile flat modeconfiguration, and a low profile tablet mode configuration with a lowz-height.

For purposes of illustrating certain example features of electronicdevice 10, the following foundational information may be viewed as abasis from which the present disclosure may be properly explained. Withthe recent touch optimized operating system (OS) release for hybridlaptops (e.g., tablets, convertible laptops, clamshell computers, etc.)have become more popular. However, convertible hinge designs havedrawbacks with usability issues for certain consumer groups. Forexample, current hinge solutions can have bulky hinge components thatcan create a large profile and inhibit the functionality and usabilityof an electronic device. For example, bulky hinge components canconstrain hybrid electronic devices or 2-in-1 form-factor scaling.

Presently the hybrid electronic devices and convertible form-factorlimitations are addressed by enabling low profile and small form-factorcomponents (e.g., coreless package and motherboard, connectors,batteries, etc.). High-density super-capacitors are also being developedto further reduce the battery form-factor and density. In at least oneexample embodiment discussed herein, an electrical device can beconfigured with a low profile hinge design where the overall system canoperate in a low profile clamshell configuration, a low profile flatconfiguration, and a low profile tablet configuration with a lowz-height. The low profile hinge can prevent the hinge form-factor fromlimiting the scaling of system total z-height by enabling a low profile,total collapse, 360° hinge using a micro-hinge segment design. The totalthickness of the hinge can be scaled according to system z-heightthrough configuring the dimension of segment components. Hence, theoverall system z-height can be scaled based on the display portion andkeyboard portion and not limited by the hinge size.

Particular embodiments described herein provide for an electronicdevice, such as a notebook computer, laptop, cellphone, or other mobiledevice that includes a circuit board coupled to a plurality ofelectronic components (which includes any type of components, elements,circuitry, etc.). The electronic device may also include a displayportion and a keyboard portion coupled to a base using a micro-hinge.The micro-hinge can be configured to allow a low profile 360° hingedesign for hybrid electronic devices and 2-in-1 applications. Themicro-hinge includes micro-hinge links. The micro-hinge links can beembedded in or covered with a molded flexible polymer (e.g.,polyurethane or some other rubber like material). The micro-hinge ismechanically coupled or connected to the display portion (e.g., displaypanel) and base portion (e.g., system board components) to form theelectronic device.

The micro-hinge link mechanism is designed to provide guidance andsupport when the main body of the micro-hinge (e.g., support rods) isbeing bent. For example, the main body can include a bundle of flexiblesupport rods enclosed in polymer heat shrink. The micro-hinge linkmechanism (with support rods) can be relatively durable and able towithstand several flipping cycles without mechanical breakdowns. Themicro-hinge link can include a mechanical support structure. Themechanical support structure can include metal rods such as thinstainless steel rods with a diameter of about 0.5 mm. Polymer basedcomposite materials may also be used and can provide improved mechanicalreliability and durability.

The electrical connections between the base portion and the displayportion can be established through an interconnection embedded orover-molded in the micro-hinge. The micro-hinge can include connectorsand mechanical retentions to provide an electrical connection betweenthe display portion and the base portion. In one embodiment, theelectrical connections between a motherboard in the base portion anddisplay components in the display portion can be formed throughconventional wire-connections via the micro-hinge. In anotherembodiment, a printed circuit board (PCB) interconnector may be used toelectrically connect the display portion and the keyboard portion. Inother examples, electrical current and signals can be passed through aplug-in connector (e.g., whose male side protrusion connects to thedisplay portion 14 and whose female side connects to the base portion 12or vice-versa) or a wireless connector (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.).Note that any number of connectors (e.g., Universal Serial Bus (USB)connectors (e.g., in compliance with the USB 3.0 Specification releasedin November 2008), Thunderbolt™ connectors, a non-standard connectionpoint such as a docking connector, etc.) can be provisioned inconjunction with electronic device 10. [Thunderbolt™ and the Thunderboltlogo are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and/or othercountries.]. Virtually any other electrical connection methods could beused and, thus, are clearly within the scope of the present disclosure.

In an embodiment, the majority of the system components (e.g.,motherboard, hard drive, battery, communication modules, etc.) remain inthe base portion. In certain embodiments, the display can be atouchscreen display. The display portion may also contain a cameramodule, microphone, speakers, and/or a wireless module. Such a designallows the electronic device to function in a clamshell configuration ora tablet configuration. In an embodiment, the display includes aplurality of electrical components that allow the display portion tofunction or operate as a tablet.

Turning to FIG. 2, FIG. 2 is a simplified orthographic view illustratingan embodiment of a portion of micro-hinge 26, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present disclosure. Micro-hinge 26 can include a baseattachment 30, linkage 32, a display attachment 34, and an electricalconduit 40. Base attachment 30 can couple or connect to base portion 12.Display attachment 34 can couple or connect to display portion 14.Linkage 32 allows micro-hinge 26 to be flexible and rotate about 360°while having a low profile. Electrical conduit 40 can allow electricalconnections between base portion 12 and display portion 14.

Turning to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 is a simplified orthographic exploded viewillustrating an embodiment of a portion of micro-hinge 26. Baseattachment 30 can include electrical conduit 40 and a base linkageattachment 54. Linkage 32 can include electrical conduit 40, a linklinkage attachment 52, an attachment area 56, and an attachment support58. Attachment area can receive base linkage attachment 54 or linklinkage attachment 52 from another link 32. Display attachment 34 caninclude electrical conduit 40, a linkage attachment area 50, andattachment support 58.

When base linkage attachment 54 on base attachment 30 is inserted intoattachment area 56, a pin, rod, or some other securing means can beinserted through attachment support 58 and through base linkageattachment 54 to secure base attachment 30 to linkage 32. Similarly,when linkage attachment 52 on another linkage 32 is inserted intoattachment area 56, a pin, rod, or some other securing means can beinserted through attachment support 58 and through link linkageattachment 52 (on another linkage 32) to secure another linkage 32 tolinkage 32. In addition, when link linkage attachment 52 is insertedinto linkage attachment area 50 on display attachment 34, a pin, rod, orsome other securing means can be inserted through attachment support 58and through link linkage attachment 52 to secure linkage 32 to displayattachment 34. Base linkage attachment 54 can rotate while secured inattachment area 56. Similarly, link linkage attachment 52 can alsorotate while secured in attachment area 56 and linkage attachment area50. This configuration gives micro-hinge 26 the flexibility to rotateabout 360° while having a low profile,

Turning to FIG. 4, FIG. 4 is a simplified orthographic view illustratingan embodiment of micro-hinge 26. Several linkages 32 can be stackedtogether to allow for a thickness of base portion 12, display portion14, and/or keyboard portion 16. For example, if base portion 12, displayportion 14, and/or keyboard portion 16 were relatively thin, then fewerlinkages 32 would need to be stacked together than if base portion 12,display portion 14, and/or keyboard portion 16 were relatively thick.

Turning to FIG. 5A, FIG. 5A is a simplified orthographic viewillustrating an embodiment of a portion of display hinge 38, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. Display hinge38 can include micro-hinge 26, base attachment 30, display attachment34, an electrical conduit 40, a plurality of support rods 44, andsupport arms 46. Micro-hinge 26 can include linkage 32. Support arms 46can couple or connect plurality of support rods 44 to base portion 12and display portion 14. As illustrated in FIG. 5A, display hinge 38 isin an open flat configuration (similar to FIG. 6B illustrated below).Display hinge 38 is illustrated without covering 42, however, in someexamples, covering 42 may cover all or a portion of display hinge 38. Inan embodiment, electrical conduit 40 may be configured to accommodatesupport rod 44 such that support rod 44 is contained in micro-hinge 26and provides support to micro-hinge 26.

Turning to FIG. 5B, FIG. 5B is a simplified orthographic viewillustrating an embodiment of a portion of display hinge 38, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustratedin FIG. 5B, display hinge 38 may be in a closed clamshell configuration(similar to FIG. 6C illustrated below) or a tablet configuration(similar to FIG. 6D illustrated below). Plurality of support rods 44 areflexible enough to bend and flex with micro-hinge 26 yet strong enoughto provide support for display portion 14 when electronic device is inan open clamshell configuration.

Turning to FIG. 6A, FIG. 6A is a simplified orthographic viewillustrating an embodiment of electronic device 10 in an open clamshellconfiguration in accordance with one embodiment of the presentdisclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 6A, display hinge 38 can include acovering 42, a plurality of micro-hinges 26, and plurality of supportrods 44. While only a portion of covering 42 is illustrated, covering 42may cover the entire portion of display hinge 38 or display hinge 38 maynot include any covering 42. Covering 42 can provide an aesthetic and/ora protective covering for plurality of micro-hinges 26 and plurality ofsupport rods 44. Covering 42 may be a molded flexible polymer (e.g.,polyurethane, or some other rubber like material) or some other materialthat provides an aesthetic and/or protective covering for plurality ofmicro-hinges 26 and plurality of support rods 44.

Turning to FIG. 6B, FIG. 6B is a simplified orthographic view ofelectronic device 10 in a flat configuration in accordance with oneembodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated, in FIG. 6B,display portion 14 has been rotated on plurality of micro-hinges 26 andplurality of support rods 44 such that display portion 14 is in the sameplane as base portion 12. In addition, keyboard portion 16 has beenrotated on keyboard hinge 20 such that keyboard portion 16 is also inthe same plane as base portion 12. Plurality of micro-hinges 26,plurality of support rods 44, and keyboard hinge 20 are configured tolay relatively flat on a planer surface and allow electronic device 10to have a low, flat, or relatively flat profile with a low z-height whenelectronic device 10 is in the flat configuration.

Turning to FIG. 6C, FIG. 6C is a simplified orthographic viewillustrating an embodiment of electronic device 10 in a closed clamshellconfiguration in accordance with one embodiment of the presentdisclosure. As illustrated, in FIG. 6C, display portion 14 has beenrotated on plurality of micro-hinges 26 and plurality of support rods 44such that display portion 14 is facing base portion 12. In addition,keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on keyboard hinge 20 such thatkeyboard portion 16 is facing away from base portion 12. Plurality ofmicro-hinges 26, plurality of support rods 44, and keyboard hinge 30 areconfigured to have a low profile and allow electronic device 10 to havea low, flat, or relatively flat profile with a low z-height whenelectronic device 10 is in the closed clamshell configuration.

Turning to FIG. 6D, FIG. 6D is a simplified orthographic view ofelectronic device in a tablet configuration in accordance with oneembodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 6D, displayportion 14 has been rotated on plurality of micro-hinges 26 andplurality of support rods 44 such that display 22 faces up and away frombase portion 12. In addition, keyboard portion 16 has been rotated onkeyboard hinge 20 such that keyboard 24 (not shown) faces down and awayfrom base portion 12. In this configuration, base portion 12 is betweendisplay portion 14 and keyboard portion 16. Plurality of micro-hinges26, plurality of support rods 44, and keyboard hinge 20 are configuredto have a low profile and allow electronic device 10 to have a low,flat, or relatively flat profile with a low z-height when electronicdevice 10 is in the tablet configuration.

Turning to FIG. 7A, FIG. 7A is a simplified orthographic viewillustrating an embodiment of electronic device 10 in an open clamshellconfiguration in accordance with one embodiment of the presentdisclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 7A, display portion 14 is supportedby a single micro-hinge 26. The single micro-hinge 26 may include extraor more support than a single micro-hinge in plurality of micro-hinges26. For example, the single micro-hinge 26 may include support rod 44.In an illustrative example, electrical conduit 40 may be configured toaccommodate support rod 44 such that support rod 44 is contained in thesingle micro-hinge 26 and provides support to the single micro-hinge 26.The extra support can allow the single micro-hinge 26 to support displayportion 14 in an open clamshell configuration.

Turning to FIG. 7B, FIG. 7B is a simplified orthographic view ofelectronic device 10 in a flat configuration in accordance with oneembodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated, in FIG. 7B,display portion 14 has been rotated on the single micro-hinge 26 suchthat display portion 14 is in the same plane as base portion 12. Inaddition, keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on keyboard hinge 20 suchthat keyboard portion 16 is also in the same plane as base portion 12.The single micro-hinge 26 is configured to have a low profile and allowelectronic device 10 to have a low, flat, or relatively flat profilewith a low z-height when electronic device 10 is in the flatconfiguration.

Turning to FIG. 7C, FIG. 7C is a simplified orthographic viewillustrating an embodiment of electronic device 10 in a closed clamshellconfiguration in accordance with one embodiment of the presentdisclosure. As illustrated, in FIG. 7C, display portion 14 has beenrotated on the single micro-hinge 26 such that display portion 14 isfacing base portion 12. In addition, keyboard portion 16 has beenrotated on keyboard hinge 20 such that keyboard portion 16 is facingaway from base portion 12. The single micro-hinge 26 is configured tohave a low profile and allow electronic device 10 to have a low, flat orrelatively flat profile with a low z-height when electronic device 10 isin the closed clamshell configuration

Turning to FIG. 7D, FIG. 7D is a simplified orthographic view ofelectronic device in a tablet configuration in accordance with oneembodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 7D, displayportion 14 has been rotated on the single micro-hinge 26 such thatdisplay 22 faces up and away from base portion 12. In addition, keyboardportion 16 has been rotated on keyboard hinge 20 such that keyboard 24(not shown) faces down and away from base portion 12. In thisconfiguration, base portion 12 is between display portion 14 andkeyboard portion 16. The single micro-hinge 26 is configured to have alow profile and allow electronic device 10 to have a low, flat orrelatively flat profile with a low z-height when electronic device 10 isin the tablet configuration

Turning to FIG. 8A, FIG. 8A is a simplified orthographic viewillustrating an embodiment of electronic device 10 in an open clamshellconfiguration in accordance with one embodiment of the presentdisclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 8A, display portion 14 is supportedby a micro-hinge band 28. Micro-hinge band 28 can include a continuous(or near continuous) band of micro-hinges 26. One or more ofmicro-hinges 26 in micro-hinge band 28 may include extra support. Forexample, one or more of micro-hinges 26 may include support rod 44(e.g., electrical conduit 40 may be configured to accommodate supportrod 44).

Turning to FIG. 8B, FIG. 8B is a simplified orthographic view ofelectronic device 10 in a flat configuration in accordance with oneembodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated, in FIG. 8B,display portion 14 has been rotated on micro-hinge band 28 such thatdisplay portion 14 is in the same plane as base portion 12. In addition,keyboard portion 16 has been rotated on keyboard hinge 20 such thatkeyboard portion 16 is also in the same plane as base portion 12.Micro-hinge band 28 is configured to have a low profile and allowelectronic device 10 to have a low, flat, or relatively flat profilewith a low z-height when electronic device 10 is in the flatconfiguration.

Turning to FIG. 8C, FIG. 8C is a simplified orthographic viewillustrating an embodiment of electronic device 10 in a closed clamshellconfiguration in accordance with one embodiment of the presentdisclosure. As illustrated, in FIG. 8C, display portion 14 has beenrotated on micro-hinge band 28 such that display portion 14 is facingbase portion 12. In addition, keyboard portion 16 has been rotated onkeyboard hinge 20 such that keyboard portion 16 is facing away from baseportion 12. Micro-hinge band 28 is configured to have a low profile andallow electronic device 10 to have a low, flat, or relatively flatprofile with a low z-height when electronic device 10 is in the closedclamshell configuration.

Turning to FIG. 8D, FIG. 8D is a simplified orthographic view ofelectronic device in a tablet configuration in accordance with oneembodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 8D, displayportion 14 has been rotated on micro-hinge band 28 such that display 22faces up and away from base portion 12. In addition, keyboard portion 16has been rotated on keyboard hinge 20 such that keyboard 24 (not shown)faces down and away from base portion 12. In this configuration, baseportion 12 is between display portion 14 and keyboard portion 16.Micro-hinge band 28 is configured to have a low profile and allowelectronic device 10 to have a low, flat, or relatively flat profilewith a low z-height when electronic device 10 is in the tabletconfiguration.

Turning to FIG. 9, FIG. 9 is a simplified block diagram associated withan example ARM ecosystem SOC 900 of the present disclosure. At least oneexample implementation of the present disclosure can include themicro-hinge features discussed herein and an ARM component. For example,the example of FIG. 9 can be associated with any ARM core (e.g., A-9,A-15, etc.). Further, the architecture can be part of any type oftablet, smartphone (inclusive of Android™ phones, iPhones™), iPad™,Google Nexus™, Microsoft Surface™, personal computer, server, videoprocessing components, laptop computer (inclusive of any type ofnotebook), Ultrabook™ system, any type of touch-enabled input device,etc.

In this example of FIG. 9, ARM ecosystem SOC 900 may include multiplecores 906-907, an L2 cache control 908, a bus interface unit 909, an L2cache 910, a graphics processing unit (GPU) 915, an interconnect 902, avideo codec 920, and a liquid crystal display (LCD) I/F 925, which maybe associated with mobile industry processor interface(MIPI)/high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) links that couple toan LCD.

ARM ecosystem SOC 900 may also include a subscriber identity module(SIM) I/F 930, a boot read-only memory (ROM) 935, a synchronous dynamicrandom access memory (SDRAM) controller 940, a flash controller 945, aserial peripheral interface (SPI) master 950, a suitable power control955, a dynamic RAM (DRAM) 960, and flash 965. In addition, one or moreexample embodiments include one or more communication capabilities,interfaces, and features such as instances of Bluetooth™ 970, a 3G modem975, a global positioning system (GPS) 980, and an 802.11 Wi-Fi 985.

In operation, the example of FIG. 9 can offer processing capabilities,along with relatively low power consumption to enable computing ofvarious types (e.g., mobile computing, high-end digital home, servers,wireless infrastructure, etc.). In addition, such an architecture canenable any number of software applications (e.g., Android™, Adobe®Flash® Player, Java Platform Standard Edition (Java SE), JavaFX, Linux,Microsoft Windows Embedded, Symbian and Ubuntu, etc.). In at least oneexample embodiment, the core processor may implement an out-of-ordersuperscalar pipeline with a coupled low-latency level-2 cache.

Turning to FIG. 10, FIG. 10 is a simplified block diagram illustratingpotential electronics and logic that may be associated with any of theelectronic devices discussed herein. In at least one example embodiment,system 1000 can include a touch controller 1002, one or more processors1004, system control logic 1006 coupled to at least one of processor(s)1004, system memory 1008 coupled to system control logic 1006,non-volatile memory and/or storage device(s) 1032 coupled to systemcontrol logic 1006, display controller 1012 coupled to system controllogic 1006, display controller 1012 coupled to a display device 1010,power management controller 1018 coupled to system control logic 1006,and/or communication interfaces 1016 coupled to system control logic1006.

System control logic 1006, in at least one embodiment, can include anysuitable interface controllers to provide for any suitable interface toat least one processor 1004 and/or to any suitable device or componentin communication with system control logic 1006. System control logic1006, in at least one example embodiment, can include one or more memorycontrollers to provide an interface to system memory 1008. System memory1008 may be used to load and store data and/or instructions, forexample, for system 1000. System memory 1008, in at least one exampleembodiment, can include any suitable volatile memory, such as suitabledynamic random access memory (DRAM) for example. System control logic1006, in at least one example embodiment, can include one or more I/Ocontrollers to provide an interface to display device 1010, touchcontroller 1002, and non-volatile memory and/or storage device(s) 1032.

Non-volatile memory and/or storage device(s) 1032 may be used to storedata and/or instructions, for example within software 1028. Non-volatilememory and/or storage device(s) 1032 may include any suitablenon-volatile memory, such as flash memory for example, and/or mayinclude any suitable non-volatile storage device(s), such as one or morehard disc drives (HDDs), one or more compact disc (CD) drives, and/orone or more digital versatile disc (DVD) drives for example.

Power management controller 1018 may include power management logic 1030configured to control various power management and/or power savingfunctions disclosed herein or any part thereof. In at least one exampleembodiment, power management controller 1018 is configured to reduce thepower consumption of components or devices of system 1000 that mayeither be operated at reduced power or turned off when the electronicdevice is in a closed configuration. For example, in at least oneexample embodiment, when the electronic device is in a closedconfiguration, power management controller 1018 performs one or more ofthe following: power down the unused portion of the display and/or anybacklight associated therewith; allow one or more of processor(s) 1004to go to a lower power state if less computing power is required in theclosed configuration; and shutdown any devices and/or components thatare unused when an electronic device is in the closed configuration.

Communications interface(s) 1016 may provide an interface for system1000 to communicate over one or more networks and/or with any othersuitable device. Communications interface(s) 1016 may include anysuitable hardware and/or firmware. Communications interface(s) 1016, inat least one example embodiment, may include, for example, a networkadapter, a wireless network adapter, a telephone modem, and/or awireless modem.

System control logic 1006, in at least one example embodiment, caninclude one or more I/O controllers to provide an interface to anysuitable input/output device(s) such as, for example, an audio device tohelp convert sound into corresponding digital signals and/or to helpconvert digital signals into corresponding sound, a camera, a camcorder,a printer, and/or a scanner.

For at least one example embodiment, at least one processor 1004 may bepackaged together with logic for one or more controllers of systemcontrol logic 1006. In at least one example embodiment, at least oneprocessor 1004 may be packaged together with logic for one or morecontrollers of system control logic 1006 to form a System in Package(SiP). In at least one example embodiment, at least one processor 1004may be integrated on the same die with logic for one or more controllersof system control logic 1006. For at least one example embodiment, atleast one processor 1004 may be integrated on the same die with logicfor one or more controllers of system control logic 1006 to form aSystem on Chip (SoC).

For touch control, touch controller 1002 may include touch sensorinterface circuitry 1022 and touch control logic 1024. Touch sensorinterface circuitry 1022 may be coupled to detect touch input over afirst touch surface layer and a second touch surface layer of a display(i.e., display device 1010). Touch sensor interface circuitry 1022 mayinclude any suitable circuitry that may depend, for example, at least inpart on the touch-sensitive technology used for a touch input device.Touch sensor interface circuitry 1022, in one embodiment, may supportany suitable multi-touch technology. Touch sensor interface circuitry1022, in at least one embodiment, can include any suitable circuitry toconvert analog signals corresponding to a first touch surface layer anda second surface layer into any suitable digital touch input data.Suitable digital touch input data for at least one embodiment mayinclude, for example, touch location or coordinate data.

Touch control logic 1024 may be coupled to help control touch sensorinterface circuitry 1022 in any suitable manner to detect touch inputover a first touch surface layer and a second touch surface layer. Touchcontrol logic 1024 for at least one example embodiment may also becoupled to output in any suitable manner digital touch input datacorresponding to touch input detected by touch sensor interfacecircuitry 1022. Touch control logic 1024 may be implemented using anysuitable logic, including any suitable hardware, firmware, and/orsoftware logic (e.g., non-transitory tangible media), that may depend,for example, at least in part on the circuitry used for touch sensorinterface circuitry 1022. Touch control logic 1024 for at least oneembodiment may support any suitable multi-touch technology.

Touch control logic 1024 may be coupled to output digital touch inputdata to system control logic 1006 and/or at least one processor 1004 forprocessing. At least one processor 1004 for at least one embodiment mayexecute any suitable software to process digital touch input data outputfrom touch control logic 1024. Suitable software may include, forexample, any suitable driver software and/or any suitable applicationsoftware. As illustrated in FIG. 10, system memory 1008 may storesuitable software 1026 and/or non-volatile memory and/or storagedevice(s).

Note that in some example implementations, the functions outlined hereinmay be implemented in conjunction with logic that is encoded in one ormore tangible, non-transitory media (e.g., embedded logic provided in anapplication-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), in digital signalprocessor (DSP) instructions, software [potentially inclusive of objectcode and source code] to be executed by a processor, or other similarmachine, etc.). In some of these instances, memory elements can storedata used for the operations described herein. This can include thememory elements being able to store software, logic, code, or processorinstructions that are executed to carry out the activities describedherein. A processor can execute any type of instructions associated withthe data to achieve the operations detailed herein. In one example, theprocessors could transform an element or an article (e.g., data) fromone state or thing to another state or thing. In another example, theactivities outlined herein may be implemented with fixed logic orprogrammable logic (e.g., software/computer instructions executed by aprocessor) and the elements identified herein could be some type of aprogrammable processor, programmable digital logic (e.g., a fieldprogrammable gate array (FPGA), a DSP, an erasable programmable readonly memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory(EEPROM)) or an ASIC that can include digital logic, software, code,electronic instructions, or any suitable combination thereof.

It is imperative to note that all of the specifications, dimensions, andrelationships outlined herein (e.g., height, width, length, materials,etc.) have only been offered for purposes of example and teaching only.Each of these data may be varied considerably without departing from thespirit of the present disclosure, or the scope of the appended claims.The specifications apply only to one non-limiting example and,accordingly, they should be construed as such. In the foregoingdescription, example embodiments have been described. Variousmodifications and changes may be made to such embodiments withoutdeparting from the scope of the appended claims. The description anddrawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather thana restrictive sense.

Numerous other changes, substitutions, variations, alterations, andmodifications may be ascertained to one skilled in the art and it isintended that the present disclosure encompass all such changes,substitutions, variations, alterations, and modifications as fallingwithin the scope of the appended claims. In order to assist the UnitedStates Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and, additionally, anyreaders of any patent issued on this application in interpreting theclaims appended hereto, Applicant wishes to note that the Applicant: (a)does not intend any of the appended claims to invoke paragraph six (6)of 35 U.S.C. section 112 as it exists on the date of the filing hereofunless the words “means for” or “step for” are specifically used in theparticular claims; and (b) does not intend, by any statement in thespecification, to limit this disclosure in any way that is not otherwisereflected in the appended claims.

Example Embodiment Implementations

One particular example implementation of an electronic device mayinclude activities associated with a low profile-hinge design. The lowprofile hinge design allows for a hybrid or convertible laptop hingethat does not have bulky hinge components that can create a largeprofile, inhibit the functionality and usability of an electronicdevice, and have significant industrial design implications. The lowprofile hinge can be configured with a micro-hinge that couples a firstelement to a second element. The micro-hinge can includes a firstattachment that couples to the first element, a second attachment thatcouples to the second element, and a plurality of linkages that couplesthe first attachment to the second attachment. The first element may bea base portion and the second element may be a display portion. Themicro-hinge can rotate about three hundred and sixty degrees and mayhave a flexible covering. The low profile hinge may further include aplurality of micro-hinges and a plurality of support rods. In anexample, the low profile hinge extends about the length of the firstelement and the second element. In addition, the micro-hinge may furtherinclude an electrical conduit.

Other Notes and Examples

Example A1 is a low profile hinge that includes a micro-hinge. Themicro-hinge can couple a first element to a second element and includesa first attachment that couples to the first element, a secondattachment that couples to the second element, and a plurality oflinkages that couples the first attachment to the second attachment.

In Example A2, the subject matter of Example A1 may optionally includewhere the low profile hinge can rotate about three hundred and sixtydegrees.

In Example A3, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘A’ Examplescan optionally include a plurality of micro-hinges and a plurality ofsupport rods.

In Example A4, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘A’ Examplescan optionally include a flexible covering.

In Example A5, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘A’ Examplescan optionally include where the low profile hinge extends about thelength of the first element and the second element.

In Example A6, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘A’ Examplescan optionally include where the micro-hinge further includes anelectrical conduit.

In Example A7, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘A’ Examplescan optionally include where the first element is a base portion of anelectronic device.

In Example A8, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘A’ Examplescan optionally include where the second element is a display portion ofan electronic device.

Example AA1 can include an electronic device that includes a baseportion, a display portion, and a micro-hinge that couples the baseportion to the display portion. The micro-hinge can include a firstattachment that couples to the base portion, a second attachment thatcouples to the display portion, and a plurality of linkages that couplesthe first attachment to the second attachment.

In Example AA2, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘AA’ Examplescan optionally include where the micro-hinge can rotate about threehundred and sixty degrees.

In Example AA3, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘AA’ Examplescan optionally include a plurality of micro-hinges and a plurality ofsupport rods.

In Example AA4, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘AA’ Examplescan optionally include where the micro-hinge further includes a flexiblecovering.

In Example AA5, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘AA’ Examplescan optionally include where the micro-hinge extends about the length ofthe base portion and the display portion.

In Example AA6, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘AA’ Examplescan optionally include where the micro-hinge further includes anelectrical conduit.

In Example AA7, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘AA’ Examplescan optionally include where the micro-hinge is a low profile hinge.

Example M1 is a method that includes rotating a display portion around abase portion using a low profile micro-hinge, where the low profilemicro-hinge includes a first attachment that couples to the baseportion, a second attachment that couples to the display portion, and aplurality of linkages that couples the first attachment to the secondattachment.

In Example M2, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘M’ Examplescan optionally include where a plurality of low-profile micro-hinges anda plurality of support rods are used to rotate the display portionaround the base portion.

In Example M3, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘M’ Examplescan optionally include where the low profile micro-hinge furtherincludes a flexible covering.

In Example M4, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘M’ Examplescan optionally include where the low profile micro-hinge furtherincludes an electrical conduit.

An example system S1 can include means for rotating a display portionaround a base portion using a low profile micro-hinge, where the lowprofile micro-hinge includes a first attachment that couples to the baseportion, a second attachment that couples to the display portion, and aplurality of linkages that couples the first attachment to the secondattachment.

An example system SS1 can include a processor and a micro-hinge thatcouples a first element to a second element, where the micro-hingeincludes a first attachment that couples to the first element, a secondattachment that couples to the second element, and a plurality oflinkages that couples the first attachment to the second attachment.

In Example SS2, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘SS’ Examplescan optionally include where the micro-hinge can rotate three hundredand sixty degrees.

In Example SS3, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘SS’ Examplescan optionally include a plurality of micro-hinges and a plurality ofsupport rods.

In Example SS4, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘SS’ Examplescan optionally include where the micro-hinge further includes anelectrical conduit.

In Example SS5, the subject matter of any of the preceding ‘SS’ Examplescan optionally include where the first element is a base portion and thesecond element is a display portion.

Example X1 is a machine-readable storage medium includingmachine-readable instructions to implement a method or realize anapparatus as in any one of the Examples A1-A8, AA1-AA7, M1-M4. ExampleY1 is an apparatus comprising means for performing of any of the Examplemethods M1-M4. In Example Y2, the subject matter of Example Y1 canoptionally include the means for performing the method comprising aprocessor and a memory. In Example Y3, the subject matter of Example Y2can optionally include the memory comprising machine-readableinstructions.

1-25. (canceled)
 26. A personal computing device comprising: a firsthousing portion; a second housing portion; and a hinge joining the firsthousing portion to the second housing portion, the hinge configured toallow the first housing portion to rotate substantiallythree-hundred-sixty degrees relative to the second housing portion,wherein the hinge comprises a plurality of interlinked parallel hingesegments, each hinge segment to rotate about a respective one of aplurality of parallel axes of the hinge.
 27. The personal computingdevice of claim 26, wherein rotating the first housing portion allowsthe personal computing device to be oriented in at least twoconfigurations.
 28. The personal computing device of claim 27, whereinthe at least two operating modes comprise a laptop configuration and atablet configuration.
 29. The personal computing device of claim 26,wherein the first housing portion houses a display device and the secondhousing portion houses a user interface.
 30. The personal computingdevice of claim 29, wherein the user interface comprises a keyboard. 31.The personal computing device of claim 29, wherein the display devicecomprises a touchscreen display.
 32. The personal computing device ofclaim 26, wherein the hinge facilitates an electrical connection betweenone or more components in the first housing and one or more componentsin the second housing.
 33. The personal computing device of claim 32,wherein the hinge comprises an electrical conduit.
 34. The personalcomputing device of claim 26, wherein the plurality of hinge segmentscomprise at least four interlocked hinge segments.
 35. The personalcomputing device of claim 26, wherein the hinge further comprises afirst attachment to couple to the first housing and a second attachmentto couple to second housing.
 36. The personal computing device of claim26, wherein the hinge further comprises a plurality of support rods. 37.The personal computing device of claim 26, comprising a convertiblepersonal computing device to convert between a laptop and tablet. 38.The personal computing device of claim 26, wherein the hinge connects toa first end of the first housing and to a second end of the secondhousing, a first edge of the first end comprises a length of the firstend and is parallel to a second edge of the second end running a lengthof the second end, wherein the plurality of parallel axes of the hingeare each parallel to each of the first and second edges.
 39. Thepersonal computing device of claim 26, wherein the plurality of parallelhinge segments form a plurality of micro hinges.
 40. A personalcomputing device comprising: a first housing portion housing atouchscreen display device; a second housing portion housing a keyboardand at least one data processor; and a hinge joining the first housingportion to the second housing portion, the hinge configured to allow thefirst housing portion to rotate substantially three-hundred-sixtydegrees relative to the second housing portion, wherein the hingecomprises a plurality of interlinked parallel hinge segments, each hingesegment to rotate about a respective one of a plurality of parallel axesof the hinge, the plurality of parallel axes are parallel to each of anedge of the first housing and an edge of the second housing, the hingefacilitates an electrical connection between at least the keyboard andthe at least one data processor, and rotation of the first housingrelative to the second housing transitions the personal computing devicebetween a laptop mode and a tablet mode.
 41. A system comprising: atleast one processor; at least one memory element; at least one firstcomputer component housed in a first housing; at least one secondcomputer component housed in a second housing; a hinge to couple thefirst and second housings, the hinge configured to allow the firsthousing portion to rotate substantially three-hundred-sixty degreesrelative to the second housing portion, wherein the hinge comprises aplurality of interlinked parallel hinge segments, each hinge segment torotate about a respective one of a plurality of parallel axes of thehinge.
 42. The system of claim 41, wherein the first computer componentcomprises a display device.
 43. The system of claim 42, wherein thesecond computer component comprises a keyboard device.
 44. The system ofclaim 41, wherein the hinge enables conversion between a laptop mode anda tablet mode.